Military packs are as central to operations as are rifles and ammo. For a long time, the ALICE pack has held a preeminent place among those that use surplus, especially on the civilian side, but recently, MOLLE packs and equipment have enjoyed a meteoric rise in popularity.
What’s the difference between these two, and is one better than the other? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is an ALICE Pack? (and Why Have They Been Popular for So Long?)
Formally known as the All-Purpose Lightweight Individual Carrying Equipment, an ALICE pack is the original “rucksack.”
It consists of an external frame to which is attached a main central pack with plenty of internal space, along with several pouches around the outside.
Although the configuration is fairly consistent, there are several different sizes of ALICE packs available.
The design of the ALICE pack makes it easy to compartmentalize your packing, to keep most of your gear organized, and make it relatively easy to access. The large central storage pack also has a lot of room.
A big selling point of the ALICE pack is that it is so durable. The metal frames that are the backbone of these packs are bombproof. The one weak point is the riveting; but these rivets are easily replaced, and a repair can be jury-rigged with paracord.
One other potential drawback is that these packs can be a bit uncomfortable to carry for an extended period of time, especially if they are well-laden and heavy.
What Is a MOLLE Pack?
MOLLE is actually nearly 30 years old now, and was introduced in 1997 to replace the ALICE pack but didn’t really get that popular until the modern engagements in Afghanistan and Iraq.
It stands for Modular Lightweight Load-Carrying Equipment and consists of a modular pack with an internal plastic frame that can be lengthened or shortened as needed. It also has internally segmented compartments, which makes it different from the ALICE configuration.
MOLLE packs have better padding than ALICE packs, which place a lot of the weight on the hips. As a result, many users remark that MOLLE packs are more comfortable to carry for longer excursions.
Also, the MOLLE pack overall is lighter than the ALICE pack. It is also made with webbing on the outside that makes it limitlessly modular (hence the name). Additional packs, pouches and gear can be clipped directly to the webbing, expanding the overall platform.
One big drawback, however, is the fact that the MOLLE system’s internal plastic frame is simply not as strong as the steel frame of the ALICE packs.
Where Can You Get MOLLE and ALICE Packs and Equipment?
As you can see, it is hard to definitively settle this matter. ALICE packs are tougher than MOLLE packs, but MOLLE packs make it much easier to expand with additional packs or gear.
Really, it’s about what your goals and intended uses are. Either way, if you’re looking for an ALICE or MOLLE pack, visit Fatigues Army Navy online. They carry a wide range of different outdoor gear and military surplus at competitive prices.
